Towards a Hierarchical User Requirement Structure for Upper Limb Assistive Robotics

This article presents the results of an interdisciplinary study encompassing data collected from 108 in-depth interviews and 15 participatory workshops aimed at exploring the requirements of a diverse range of stakeholders in relation to assistive augmentative technologies. The study involved 39 post-stroke patients with hand paresis, 39 individuals with spinal cord injuries affecting upper limb function, 38 relatives and 65 healthcare professionals. Through qualitative analysis of the accumulated data, this research identified the multifaceted needs, preferences and aspirations of the study participants. We propose a structured hierarchy for user requirements, inspired by Maslow's hierarchy of needs. At the foundation of this pyramid are the essential functional requirements, forming the bedrock for the subsequent layers. Moving hierarchically, we identified reliability and security requirements, followed by usability and user experience considerations, recognition requirements and, finally, personal growth and self-fulfilment criteria. The foundational functional requirements must be fulfilled before other aspects can take precedence, creating a systematic approach to address the diverse needs of individuals with upper limb disabilities. The pyramid of requirements identified may significantly contribute to the scholarly community and lay the foundation for the development of assistive robotics that align with the desires of individuals with upper limb disabilities.